📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Director, Operational Excellence, Change Management and Communications
🔹 Company: AstraZeneca
🔹 Location: Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
🔹 Job Type: Full-time, Hybrid (3 days on-site)
🔹 Category: Pharmaceutical, Operations Management
🔹 Date Posted: April 3, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years
🔹 Remote Status: On-site (3 days per week)
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Driving process optimization and operational excellence in R&D IT
- Developing strategic management processes for key performance indicators
- Leading the standardization of processes and enhancing technology adoption
- Building strategic partnerships and fostering a collaborative environment
- Creating engaging digital content and managing high-impact events
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a balance of strategic thinking, operational execution, and strong stakeholder engagement. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in operations management, change management, and digital communications.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Lead the strategic and operational plans to ensure strategic priorities are met
✅ Assess, prioritize, and drive process optimization and LEAN methodologies within R&D IT
✅ Develop and implement strategies and plans for process standardization and optimization
✅ Drive the analysis of R&D IT Pulse results and develop action plans to enhance employee satisfaction and engagement
✅ Develop and monitor the R&D IT Scorecard & Roadmap to align operational excellence priorities with AZ and Global IT priorities
✅ Work in collaboration with IT teams to develop R&D IT and R&D Change and Communication Strategies and plans
✅ Develop and oversee the execution of the Change and Communications Events Plan and Training Plan
✅ Lead and manage the coordination of high-impact global and local events, such as IT Showcases, Podcasts, Webinars, Lunch & Learns, and presentations for the business
✅ Create and maintain consistent, high-quality content across end-user portals and ensure accessibility of critical content
✅ Develop and implement a forward-looking learning strategy focused on AI and technology
ASSUMPTION: This role involves a mix of strategic planning, project management, and stakeholder engagement. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a dynamic environment and adapting to changing priorities.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree or above
Experience: 5-7 years+ of applicable experience in operations management, change management, and technology implementations
Required Skills:
- Sound knowledge of process optimization, LEAN ways of working, Change Management, and Communications
- Excellent written, presentation, and verbal skills with the ability to build excellent relationships with stakeholders
- Ability to influence and shape Global solutions/processes
- Fluent English
Preferred Skills:
- Exposure to AI and technology in learning and development
- Independence and ability to lead and manage a diverse cross-functional team
- Confidence in building strong relationships with colleagues across the business
ASSUMPTION: Given the strategic and operational nature of this role, candidates with a strong background in operations management, change management, and digital communications are most likely to succeed.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: CAD 150,000 - 180,000 per year (Estimated based on industry standards for a Director-level role in the Pharmaceutical industry in Mississauga)
Benefits:
- Competitive health, dental, and vision plans
- Retirement savings plan with company match
- Employee stock purchase plan
- Generous time-off policies
- Employee assistance program
- Learning and development opportunities
Working Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week, with flexibility for hybrid work arrangement (3 days on-site)
ASSUMPTION: The salary range is estimated based on industry standards for a Director-level role in the Pharmaceutical industry in Mississauga. Actual compensation may vary based on experience and qualifications.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: AstraZeneca operates in the Pharmaceutical Manufacturing industry, focusing on the discovery, development, and commercialization of prescription medicines, primarily for the treatment of diseases in three therapy areas – Oncology, Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism, and Respiratory & Immunology.
Company Size: AstraZeneca is a large, global organization with over 10,000 employees worldwide. This size offers opportunities for career growth and exposure to diverse projects and teams.
Founded: AstraZeneca was founded in 1999 through the merger of Astra AB and Zeneca Group plc.
Company Description:
- AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development, and commercialization of prescription medicines
- The company aims to push the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines that address some of the most serious diseases facing humanity
- AstraZeneca is committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients worldwide
Company Specialties:
- Pharmaceutical
- Biopharmaceutical
- Innovation
- Research and development
- Global business
Company Website: www.astrazeneca.com
ASSUMPTION: AstraZeneca's large size and global presence offer candidates the opportunity to work on diverse projects and gain exposure to various aspects of the pharmaceutical industry.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: This role is at the Director level, reporting directly to the Head of R&D IT Operations. The role has a significant impact on strategic decision-making and operational execution within the R&D IT department.
Reporting Structure: The Director will report directly to the Head of R&D IT Operations and will have matrixed relationships with various IT teams and R&D stakeholders.
Work Arrangement: This role follows a hybrid work arrangement, with employees expected to work on-site for 3 days per week.
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential to expand the role's scope and influence based on performance and strategic priorities
- Opportunities to work on cross-functional projects and gain exposure to different aspects of the business
- Access to learning and development opportunities to support career growth
ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant growth potential, both in terms of expanding the role's scope and gaining exposure to different aspects of the business.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: AstraZeneca's Mississauga office is a modern, collaborative workspace designed to facilitate teamwork and innovation.
Office Location(s): 1 Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire CB2 0AA, GB (Headquarters), and 152 57, SE (Sweden office)
Geographic Context:
- Mississauga is a major city in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), offering a diverse range of cultural, recreational, and entertainment options
- The city has a humid continental climate, with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters
- Mississauga is home to a vibrant tech industry, with numerous startups and established companies in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors
Work Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours per week, with flexibility for hybrid work arrangement (3 days on-site)
ASSUMPTION: The hybrid work arrangement offers candidates the best of both worlds – the opportunity to collaborate and build relationships in an on-site environment, combined with the flexibility to work remotely for part of the week.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission
- Phone or video screening with the HR team
- In-depth behavioral and technical interviews with the hiring manager and key stakeholders
- Final round interview with senior leadership
- Background check and offer extension
Key Assessment Areas:
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
- Operational execution and project management capabilities
- Stakeholder engagement and communication skills
- Cultural fit and alignment with AstraZeneca's values
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role
- Be prepared to discuss your approach to process optimization, change management, and digital communications
- Demonstrate your understanding of AstraZeneca's business and the pharmaceutical industry
- Prepare questions to ask the interviewer about the role, team dynamics, and growth opportunities
ATS Keywords: Operational Excellence, Change Management, Communications, Process Optimization, LEAN Methodologies, Project Management, Digital Communications, Stakeholder Engagement, Training Development, Data Analysis, KPI Monitoring, Content Creation, Event Coordination, Team Leadership, Relationship Building, Strategic Planning
ASSUMPTION: AstraZeneca's hiring process is designed to assess candidates' strategic thinking, operational execution, and cultural fit. Successful candidates will demonstrate a strong understanding of the role's requirements and AstraZeneca's business.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Jira, Microsoft Project)
- Change management software (e.g., Prosci, ChangeFirst)
- Digital communications platforms (e.g., SharePoint, MS Teams, Workplace)
- Data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Power BI, Tableau)
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have experience with relevant tools and technologies, as well as a willingness to learn and adapt to new tools as needed.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Patient-centricity: Putting patients first in everything we do
- One AstraZeneca: Working together, empowering our people
- Science-driven: Leading through innovation, always learning
- Can-do attitude: Embracing an entrepreneurial spirit
Work Style:
- Collaborative: Fostering a culture of teamwork and knowledge-sharing
- Agile: Adapting to change and embracing continuous improvement
- Data-driven: Making informed decisions based on data and insights
- Inclusive: Valuing diversity and fostering an inclusive work environment
Self-Assessment Questions:
- How do you align with AstraZeneca's value of patient-centricity, and how have you demonstrated this in your previous roles?
- How comfortable are you working in a hybrid environment, and how do you ensure effective communication and collaboration with remote team members?
- How do you balance strategic thinking with operational execution, and how have you demonstrated this in your previous roles?
ASSUMPTION: AstraZeneca values candidates who align with their core values and work style, and who can demonstrate a strong cultural fit with the organization.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Balancing strategic priorities with day-to-day operational demands
- Managing stakeholder expectations and driving change in a large, matrixed organization
- Adapting to a hybrid work environment and ensuring effective communication and collaboration with remote team members
- Keeping up with the latest trends and best practices in process optimization, change management, and digital communications
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and navigating potential challenges with resilience and adaptability.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- This role is unique in its focus on operational excellence, change management, and digital communications within the R&D IT department. While there may be similar roles in other departments or organizations, this role offers a specific blend of strategic, operational, and communication responsibilities.
- Pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries are highly competitive and fast-paced, requiring candidates to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in their fields.
- Career paths in operations management, change management, and digital communications can vary depending on the organization and industry. However, this role offers significant growth potential and exposure to various aspects of the business.
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should research the pharmaceutical industry and AstraZeneca's business to understand the unique aspects of this role and how it compares to similar roles in other departments or organizations.
📝 Sample Projects
- Developing and implementing a comprehensive process optimization plan for a major R&D IT initiative
- Leading a cross-functional team to create engaging digital content for a global R&D IT event
- Analyzing R&D IT Pulse results and developing action plans to enhance employee satisfaction and engagement
ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the strategic, operational, and communication aspects of the role, and provide insight into the types of initiatives the ideal candidate might lead or contribute to.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- Can you describe the strategic priorities for R&D IT in the next 12-24 months, and how this role will support their achievement?
- How does this role collaborate with other IT teams and R&D stakeholders to drive operational excellence and technology adoption?
- What are the key challenges facing R&D IT, and how does this role address them?
- How does AstraZeneca support the professional development and growth of employees in this role?
- What is the team dynamic and work style of the R&D IT Operations team, and how does this role fit within it?
ASSUMPTION: These questions are designed to help candidates understand the strategic context, team dynamics, and growth opportunities associated with this role.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experiences for this role
- Prepare for your interview by researching AstraZeneca's business and the pharmaceutical industry
- Prepare questions to ask the interviewer about the role, team dynamics, and growth opportunities
- Follow up with the hiring manager within 24 hours after your interview to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
